Angelina’s Corner: Roundup
Words by Angelina Singer
Chammeili
This song was submitted to me recently and it’s definitely a bit off the beaten path, a little surreal, and jazz-oriented — but I liked it. The vocals sound like a Fleetwood Mac B-side, with an added Indian flair reflective of the artist’s heritage. I liked the added horn section, with the vocal melodies that float above the instrumentation. It’s also got some 70s style to it, that brings it both to the past and the newer styles, fusing it all together into something totally new but still quite familiar. Listen to it for something different than you’re used to that will broaden your horizons.
Worst Case Scenario by Yu Ishii
This fun acoustic-pop anthem has such a relatable vibe with lyrics that will hug the most insecure elements of your personality. “I heard sometimes love’s not always enough / so I start thinking worst case scenarios” is a small taste of the great lyrics that anyone anxiously-attached in a relationship will relate to. With bright acoustic guitar that swirls and builds around the full vocal harmonies and pleasant ad-libs, this song hits all the right notes in the intersection of summer and fall, with so much hope for whatever comes next. Listen to this one with a fresh cup of lemonade and a heaping dose of self-awareness that will help you remember sometimes things can end up better than you ever imagined.
This one reminded me of something the band American Authors might write, with its snarky-toned vocal performance and tendency to ask the hard-hitting questions only dulled by tasteful melodies. It’s all about feeling alone in the crowd and wishing that you had more confidence to live your life with purpose. No matter where this song finds you, the changing dynamics, drums, and thought-provoking lyrics will give you the motivation you’ve been craving to plot a new course. The production on this one is so good, the ending seemed to come around far too soon — but that’s okay, because you can just keep this one on repeat.
Paralyzer Tranquilizer by DUUNES
This song brings a great message around mental health with an added alt-rock feel, complete with fuzzed-out rhythm guitar and sonic textures that will keep you guessing. I especially liked the choruses where everything kicks into high-gear, with pounding drums, and high-octane energy that must be incredible live. This song is the perfect energetic song for self-reflection, while also inspiring you to take chances and chase your dreams without hesitation. Bonus points for that intriguing guitar solo that really sets the tone that this song is something different in the best way.
Rounding out this week’s deep-dive into the topic of mental health, is this great acoustically-driven track that depicts the feeling when life feels numb and everything is too heavy. It also challenges listeners to better themselves when their habits aren’t serving their higher purpose. I really love all the sonic changes and rhythm dynamics in this song that keep it interesting without feeling too busy. It’s got a warmth to it that you’ll have to experience — and it will also remind you that it’s important to give yourself grace when you’re working on yourself. This song is so well-produced, refreshing, and current — so listen to it loud and often.